Intelligent energy management -a way to recover after COVID-19?

摘要

The paper industry has a long history of driving down energy consumption. However, the COVID-19 pandemic is causing widespread concern across all sectors of the economy, and the paper, pulp and wood industry is no exception. The lockdown has changed consumer spending patterns, making it more likely for people to stockpile tissue and hygiene products, whereas the demand for other items, such as building materials and office supplies, is uncertain. Due to fluctuating demand and disruptions to the supply chain caused by social distancing and workforce furloughs, as well as the potential for future changes to fiscal policies as the government facilitates the economic bounce-back, businesses will require careful navigation and planning. PwC has advised paper, pulp and wood businesses to prepare for prolonged recovery, as it is likely that some suppliers and vendors will be facing months of operational and financial difficulties.1 To mitigate the impact of supply chain disruptions, experts urge businesses to generate savings wherever possible and ''to prioritise establishing tactical cash and working-capital framework designed to absorb commercial shocks''. With energy costs constituting around a third of all paper production costs,2 there has never been a better time for businesses to review their current energy strategy and look for new opportunities in the energy markets.